Harmon Park in Kearney receives USTA grants for court resurfacing

In connection with Park and Recreation Month taking place in July in the United States, USTA Nebraska is spotlighting Harmon Park.

Harmon Park in Kearney, Nebraska has a long history in the community dating back more than 100 years. Currently, the park offers residents many amenities including six lighted tennis courts, a swimming pool, sand volleyball courts, basketball courts, a ballfield, playground, picnic shelters and more.

The City of Kearney Park and Recreation Department was awarded a 2025 USTA National Tennis Venue Services grant in the amount of $28,400 as well as a $3,500 TVS grant from USTA Missouri Valley. The money will go toward the cost of resurfacing the six tennis courts at Harmon Park. The total cost of the project is $52,800, with the City of Kearney covering the rest.

“The tennis community is very excited about this project,” said Scott Hayden, director of recreational services for the City of Kearney. “The Harmon tennis courts are the most highly utilized courts in town.

“The courts not only serve drop-in play but also Kearney Park and Recreation tennis programs, Kearney Tennis Association camps and tournaments, the University of Nebraska-Kearney and our two high schools.”

Hayden said it’s been more than 20 years since the courts have been resurfaced. The project is expected to occur sometime between July 21 and Aug. 8 this year, in time for the start of the boys' tennis high school season.

Mary Buschmann, USTA Missouri Valley CEO and executive director, presented a check representing USTA's contributions toward the project on July 8 at a city council meeting.

Check out additional USTA Missouri Valley stories for Park and Recreation Month by clicking here.